The Sydney Morning Herald reports that the Dragons and Raiders have entered the competition for Wests Tigers star prop Stefano Utoikamanu, offering significant contracts. A Dragons official confirmed the club’s interest, detailing their intention to propose a five-year deal worth $4.5 million ($900,000 per season) to the 24-year-old. Similarly, the Raiders are preparing to match this annual salary of $900,000 as they plan for potential changes in their squad, including the future of Josh Papalii, who has a mutual contract option for next year.
The Tigers recently announced that Utoikamanu has been granted permission to explore his market value, emphasizing a mutual contract option for next season. This clause allows him to become a free agent if the Tigers do not qualify for the finals, prompting the club to authorize his exploration of other opportunities now.
In their statement, the Tigers expressed optimism about retaining Utoikamanu in the long term while acknowledging his current review of other options. Earlier this month, the Tigers proposed a five-year contract worth $4 million, slightly less per season than the Dragons’ current offer.
According to the Herald, the Melbourne Storm are also monitoring Utoikamanu’s situation, while the Bulldogs have indicated they will not pursue him.